Location Icon Grand Junction Location Icon Montrose Location Icon Glenwood Springs Location Icon Gunnison
Phone: 970-549-4660

Our Cognitive Care

Schedule an Appointment

Why Cognitive Care?

Your cognitive health refers to a collective set of abilities—such as thinking, learning, speaking, and clearly recalling information.

Hearing loss doesn't just affect your ears; it affects the quantity and quality of neurological input to the brain. This deprivation causes changes in brain neurology, function, and structure. It increases the mental effort needed to process information (especially in noise), depleting cognitive resources necessary for memory and attention.

Additionally, hearing loss can impact social interaction and emotional well-being, increasing the risk of isolation, depression, and anxiety. Taking care of your cognitive health needs to begin way before you or your family sees a decline.

The Research: Lancet Commission

The Lancet Commission—a series of science-led, international collaborations regarding Dementia for both 2020 and 2024—outlined hearing loss to be the primary modifiable risk factor related to developing dementia.

Because of this causal association, our providers view patients with the future in mind. Modern medicine helps add years to lives, but Western Colorado Hearing Clinic aims to add quality of life to those years.

About Cognivue: Our Cognitive Screener

At Western Colorado Hearing Clinic, we utilize the FDA approved cognitive screener – Cognivue. What makes Cognivue different is the ability to hear is not required for the process. The technology includes captions for those who are hard of hearing or have severe hearing loss.

It is a short cognitive screening test that evaluates aspects of your cognitive functioning. The test focuses on five cognitive domains: memory, visual spatial ability, executive function, reaction time, and processing speed.
By completing a Cognivue screening, the patient is able to determine where their abilities lie in reference to other normative data and can aid in helping them develop a plan of action for improvement or maintenance. This information is also widely appreciated by physicians and other healthcare professionals as it delivers clear and meaningful information to both patients and medical providers alike.

Our Treatment Options for Cognitive Decline

Hearing Aids

Hearing Aids can play a significant role in potentially slowing or preventing cognitive decline associated with untreated hearing loss. In fact, studies have shown that using hearing aids can reduce the risk of decline by up to 600%. Hearing aids help mitigate the negative impacts of hearing loss on the brain by providing proper neural stimulation to the brain and reducing cognitive load. This also provides opportunity for enhanced social engagement, delays the progression of further hearing loss, and potentially removes the associated risk of dementia caused by untreated hearing loss.

Cochlear Implants

Cochlear implants, while primarily known for restoring hearing, can also play a role in mitigating cognitive decline. Similar to hearing aids, cochlear implants can improve speech perception and help to provide proper neurological stimulation to the brain from sound. Studies have shown that cochlear implantation can improve cognitive functions like executive function, verbal memory, and non-verbal memory.

Auditory Cognitive Rehabilitation

Cognitive rehabilitation includes techniques like memory training or computer- or phone-based exercises, which can help individuals develop strategies to cope with cognitive changes and provide improvements in skill or coping strategies. We also use therapies targeted toward the social element o help patients remain engaged and challenge them to work towards higher-level function where appropriate.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be a beneficial intervention for individuals experiencing cognitive decline, particularly when associated with conditions like depression or anxiety, or even as a preventative measure. While not a cure for dementia, CBT can help manage symptoms, improve quality of life, and potentially delay progression by addressing negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT is also helpful for loved ones in aiding their understanding of the condition and provide a more compassionate and supporting foundation for relationships.

Nutrition Counseling

Nutrition counseling can play a significant role in preventing, managing, and potentially slowing cognitive decline. Focusing on specific dietary patterns can improve cognitive health. Our nutrition counselor will work with you one-on-one to determine how your diet should be adjusted to positively impact your cognitive health.

The Connection Between Hearing & Brain Health

A Proactive Approach to Brain Health

At Western Colorado Hearing Clinic, we view hearing care as a critical component of your overall health strategy. Because the link between untreated hearing loss and cognitive strain is well-documented, our approach goes beyond simple amplification. We provide comprehensive cognitive hearing care for our Colorado patients, focusing on early detection, neuro-focused technology, and long-term brain resilience.

Reducing the Cognitive Load

When hearing becomes difficult, the brain is forced to divert resources from memory and comprehension just to process sound—a phenomenon known as "cognitive load." This can lead to fatigue and social withdrawal. Our goal is to reverse this dynamic. By addressing hearing and cognitive decline early, we help reduce that mental strain, allowing you to stay sharp, engaged, and confident in your daily interactions.

Personalized Treatment Plans

There is no one-size-fits-all solution for brain health. Your provider will design a treatment plan based on your unique Cognivue scores and lifestyle needs. Whether through advanced hearing aids optimized for brain health, auditory rehabilitation, or nutritional counseling, our solutions are designed to keep you connected to the people and places you love.

Trusted Audiology Care & Your Next Step

As a locally owned practice, we are proud to bring world-class audiology services to Grand Junction, Montrose, and Gunnison. You do not have to navigate these changes alone. If you are noticing shifts in your hearing or mental clarity, let’s start the conversation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does hearing loss affect cognitive health?

Hearing loss forces the brain to reallocate resources from memory and thinking to auditory processing—a concept known as “cognitive load.” Over time, this deprivation can contribute to structural changes in the brain and accelerate cognitive decline.

Can hearing aids support brain health?

Yes. By restoring auditory input, hearing aids provide the brain with the stimulation it needs to remain active. Reducing the “listening effort” allows the brain to focus on executive functions like memory and comprehension, rather than just identifying sound.

When should someone consider cognitive hearing care?

We recommend an evaluation if you experience “listening fatigue,” trouble following conversations in noise, or memory lapses. However, because cognitive changes can be subtle, we suggest a baseline screening for anyone over 50 or anyone with known hearing loss.

Is cognitive hearing care only for older adults?

No. While cognitive decline is often associated with aging, auditory processing issues can affect adults of any age. Early intervention is key; protecting your neural pathways now is the best strategy for long-term brain resilience.

What should I expect during a cognitive hearing evaluation?

Unlike a standard hearing test, our evaluation uses FDA-cleared Cognivue technology. We assess five key cognitive domains—including memory, visuospatial ability, and reaction time—to see how your brain is processing the sound it hears.

Jennifer A. Bebee received her bachelor’s degree in hearing, speech and language sciences in 2007 from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. She went on to earn her doctor’s degree in audiology in 2010 from Indiana University in Bloomington, Indiana. She completed her final clinical rotation for her audiology degree in Grand Junction when she moved in 2009. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, is a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology (F-AAA), and is a Certified Dementia Practitioner.  She is state and nationally certified to practice audiology and dispense hearing aids in Colorado and Utah.

Dr. Bebee has a passion for providing exceptional care for all patients, whether it may be for diagnostic procedures or rehabilitation through hearing aids. She has a special passion for helping her patients to age better through the treatment of hearing loss, aimed at reducing the high risk associated for causality of dementia. She especially enjoys helping the men and women who have served our country in the armed forces. She also works closely with healthcare providers in the Grand Valley to provide comprehensive and collaborative care for patients. She is thankful for those relationships she has developed and looks forward to serving the community for many years to come.

She was born and raised in Ohio, but fell in love with Colorado the moment she set foot here. Dr. Bebee is supported by her loving husband Aaron and their two children, Bennett and Kennedy. In her free time, she enjoys hiking with her family, cooking, camping, traveling the US, and reading novels.

Jo-an Mealler, MS, CCC-A. F-AAA has been a practicing Audiologist for 4 decades, with 34 of those years in Grand Junction, providing audiological services for the State of Colorado, the VA Regional Medical Center and Colorado West Audiologists, plus nearly 20 years as owner of Bookcliff Family Hearing Center. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Audiology from Colorado State University and has completed extensive post graduate work at the University of Iowa. Jo-an is a Fellow of the American Academy of Audiology, is board certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and is state and nationally certified to practice audiology and dispense hearing aids.

Jo-an specializes in Hearing Rehabilitation, including fitting advanced digital hearing technology, implantable nontraditional amplification, and assistive listening devices and has an extensive background in Hearing Conservation and counseling patients regarding noise exposure and the use of hearing protection devices. She also has expertise in infant, child and adult diagnostic testing, as-well-as providing in-depth evaluation and management of disorders of hearing and tinnitus.

Ashley Ernest received her bachelor’s degree in speech, language and hearing sciences from Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana in 2020. She then earned her doctorate in audiology in 2023 from Grand Valley State University in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Ashley holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association and is state and nationally certified to practice audiology and dispense hearing aids. She has a passion for fitting hearing aids and working with cochlear implants.

Ashley was born in northern Indiana but fell in love with the beautiful weather and scenery of Colorado. Ashley lives with her husband Ben and their sassy cat Piper. In her free time, she loves baking, reading, doing yoga and hiking or camping in the Grand Mesa.

Rachel is a dedicated audiologist committed to helping patients improve their hearing and overall quality of life.  She received her bachelor’s degree in Speech and Hearing from Elmira College in 2021 and her Doctorate of Audiology from Syracuse University in 2025. Rachel is state and nationally certified to practice audiology and dispense hearing aids. She also holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence in Audiology (CCC-A) from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. With a strong passion for fitting hearing aids and caring for patients affected by tinnitus, Rachel takes pride in enhancing the lives of those with hearing challenges.

Originally from Upstate New York, Rachel now calls Western Colorado home, where she enjoys exploring the great outdoors with her dog, Lonnie. When she’s not caring for patients, you can find her hiking, reading, or simply soaking up the beautiful scenery. Rachel is excited to use her expertise to help you achieve optimal hearing health.

With a deep understanding of how hearing affects quality of life, Andi strives to make a meaningful difference in every patient’s journey. She attended Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, LA to complete her undergraduate degree in Communication Disorders and holds a Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, LA. Andi is state and nationally certified to practice audiology and dispense hearing aids. Her clinical interests include diagnostic evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and individualized patient care. Helping people reconnect with the world through better hearing is at the heart of her work as an audiologist.

Born and raised in Louisiana, Andi enjoys the vast contrast Colorado has to offer and considers it home. She enjoys spending time with her cat, Milo, family, and friends. Off the clock, she enjoys cooking Cajun cuisine, hiking, listening to music, and going on road trips. Andi is delighted to have the opportunity to blend science and compassion to help patients navigate hearing loss and rediscover the sounds they love.

Reading adventurous novels has always been a huge part of Heidi’s life. She made a goal to become a book editor and possibly write a book of her own one day. With this goal in mind, Heidi received her Bachelor of Science degree with an emphasis in English and Communications from Brigham Young University – Idaho. She loves to read novels of all types and could never pick just one favorite author because there are too many to choose from. Born and raised in Colorado, she also loves to go camping, hiking, and mountain biking with her husband and two children. With a love for blasting music in her car (and singing along, of course), Heidi knows the importance of hearing health. She shares a passion to help support the needs of this community to further help patients with their hearing health care.

Kelley was born and raised here in the Western Slope. She grew up in Montrose playing soccer and basketball, riding horses, helping at family ranches, and camping around Gunnison. Her and her husband currently raise their children here in the Grand Valley. They stay busy with extra-curricular events, family events, and plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, camping, fishing and walking their 2 dogs. Kelley enjoys helping others and is passionate about helping them add quality back into their lives. She loves getting to know our patients and helping them with their hearing needs.

Melisa Boyles moved to Grand Junction in 2005 from Mesa, Arizona and quickly fell in love with all the beauty and adventures the Western Slope has to offer. She completed her college education at Colorado Mesa University, receiving her bachelor’s degree in graphic design, with a knack for marketing.

After developing hearing loss at a young age and becoming a double cochlear implant recipient, she has discovered a hidden passion for helping others achieve a better quality of life with hearing treatment and care. She has been a long-time patient with Western Colorado Hearing Clinic and is now a Patient Care Coordinator.

Melisa enjoys camping and riding side-by-sides, gardening, and traveling with her family in the warmer months and in the cooler months, reading a good book or working in her “creative den” helps fill her time.

*Yes, she is the one from our commercials

Born and raised in Grand Junction, Colorado, Aaron is very familiar with our community. He attended Colorado Mesa University and graduated in 2005 with his Bachelor of Business and holds a degree in Business Management. He worked in the Audio-Visual industry until 2018 and transitioned to other business ventures, like supporting Western Colorado Hearing Clinic.

When Aaron is not at the office, he enjoys spending time outdoors in this beautiful area. He loves riding his bikes all over Colorado and participates in Cyclocross and Mountain bike racing. He also loves camping with his family and spending time with his wife Jennifer, and 2 children, Bennett and Kennedy.